MLS changes rules, will now allow teams to pay cash for players in landmark team-building decision

MLS will now allow teams to spend transfer fees on players for the first time ever, the league announced Tuesday. There will be no limits on how much a franchise can pay for another player, but teams are being capped to a maximum or two cash-for-player trades per year.

No other assets - including additional players - can be used in such transactions.

This is a landmark moment for the league - which previously had not allowed players to be moved for cash. Players have to retain their player status when they are purchased. Designated players for one side, for example, would have to remain a designated player when they move club.

The change figures to open up trade opportunities within the league, especially as the talent pool continues to grow. It goes into effect immediately. Preseason camps have already started for most clubs.